Democrat,

On Tuesday night, we had the privilege of joining the Muslim Caucus for an inspiring event celebrating the strength and contributions of New Jersey’s Muslim community. The evening featured meaningful conversations about progress and the vital role of Muslim Americans in shaping our state’s future. It was energizing to see so many community leaders and grassroots organizers come together, including newly elected Assemblyman Al Abdelaziz.

We would also like to congratulate the Caucus’s two new co-chairs, Jimmy Small and Azra Baig, whose leadership and dedication will be instrumental in furthering the mission of empowering and uplifting Muslim voices across New Jersey.

We look forward to seeing the Muslim Caucus continue its incredible work and to future events that will deepen engagement within the community. As we move forward, it’s clear that the momentum from Tuesday’s event will help drive meaningful action, ensuring that Muslim Americans remain an integral part of our political and civic landscape.

This week Governor Phil Murphy announced that New Jerseyans can now use IRS Direct File for the 2025 tax season. For the first time, this free, secure online tool offers live chat support, making it easier to file both federal and state tax returns. Over one million New Jerseyans are expected to qualify. Find out if you are eligible at DirectFile.IRS.gov.

To use Direct File, you must have lived in New Jersey for all of 2024, earned all income in-state, and plan to use the same filing status for both federal and state returns.

This past Monday was Holocaust Remembrance Day and we honored the six million Jews and millions of others lost to hate and tyranny. This day reminds us to never be complacent in the face of antisemitism and bigotry. We must remain committed to ensuring "never again" is not just a promise but an ongoing fight for justice.

In that spirit, we invite you to join our Jewish Caucus, a space within NJDSC dedicated to uplifting Jewish voices, combating antisemitism, and advocating for policies that protect and empower our New Jersey Jewish community.

If you are interested in joining, click here for the interest form.

— Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

P.S. Wishing a joyful and prosperous Lunar New Year to all who celebrate! May the Year of the Snake bring health, happiness, and success to you and your loved ones.

P.P.S. Please join us for a special meet and greet with our Black Caucus as we celebrate Black History Month on February 10th from 6:00-8:00 pm in Newark, NJ. RSVP here!